Cable connector having fluid reservoir

ABSTRACT

Embodiments of a cable connector are provided that include an inner connector assembly and an outer connector housing. In use, the cable connector securely fastens or splices together at least two cables or cable sections and in electrical communication while also providing fluid communication therebetween. The cable connector further protects, and preferably seals off, the connection interface between the cables or cable sections and from the environment.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to cableconnectors suitable for use with electrical power cables, and moreparticularly, to cable connectors, such as splice connectors, thatinterconnect at least two electrical power cables or cable sections.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Typical underground electrical cables include a number of copper oraluminum strands surrounded by a semiconducting or insulating strandshield, a layer of insulation, and an insulation shield. This design ofunderground cables is known for having a useful life of 25-40 years. Insome instances, the life span of an underground cable is shortened whenwater enters the cable and forms micro-voids in the insulation layer.These micro-voids spread throughout the insulation layer in a tree likeshape, collections of which are sometimes referred to as water trees.

Water trees are known to form in the insulation layer of electricalcables when medium to high voltage alternating current is applied to apolymeric dielectric (insulator) in the presence of water and ions. Aswater trees grow, they compromise the dielectric properties of thepolymer until the insulation layer fails. Many large water treesinitiate at the site of an imperfection or a contaminant, butcontamination is not a necessary condition for water trees to propagate.

Water tree growth can be eliminated or retarded by removing orminimizing the water or ions, or by reducing the voltage stress. Anotherapproach requires the injection of dielectric enhancement fluid intointerstices located between the strands of the cables. Please see U.S.Pat. No. 5,907,128 for a more detailed description of such an approach.The fluid reacts with water inside the cable and oligomerizes to slowdiffusion and provide long lasting dielectric enhancing fluid. Theoligomerized fluid functions as a water tree retardant and providesother beneficial properties.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, an apparatusfor interconnecting a first cable and a second cable is provided. Thefirst and second cables each comprise an exposed electrically conductivecore and an outer insulating layer. The apparatus includes a couplingthat electrically interconnects the first and second cables, wherein thecoupling defines a first fluid pathway that connects the core of thefirst cable in fluid communication with the core of the second cable;and at least one internal fluid reservoir disposed in fluidcommunication with the core of the first or second cable.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, anapparatus for interconnecting a first cable and a second cable isprovided. The first and second cables each comprise an exposedelectrically conductive core and an outer insulating layer. Theapparatus includes a coupling that electrically interconnects the firstand second cables. The coupling defines a first fluid pathway thatconnects the core of the first cable in fluid communication with thecore of the second cable. The apparatus further includes at least oneinternal fluid reservoir disposed in fluid communication with eithercore of the first or second cable, and an actuator chamber fluidlyisolated from the at least one internal fluid reservoir.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, anapparatus for interconnecting a first cable and a second cable isprovided. The first and second cables each comprise an exposedelectrically conductive core and an outer insulating layer. Theapparatus includes a housing that defines a sealable interior cavity anda coupling disposed in the interior cavity. The coupling electricallyand mechanically interconnects the first and second cables. The couplingdefines a first fluid pathway that connects the core of the first cablein fluid communication with the core of the second cable. The apparatusfurther includes a fluid reservoir disposed in the interior cavity, andmeans for forcing the contents of the fluid reservoir into the core ofthe first or second cable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of thisinvention will become more readily appreciated by reference to thefollowing detailed description, when taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective, partial cross sectional view of one exemplaryembodiment of a cable connector constructed in accordance with aspectsof the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective, partial cross sectional view of one suitableembodiment of an inner connector assembly suitable for use with theouter connector housing shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the left side of the cable connectorshown in FIG. 1, the right side having a substantially identicalconfiguration;

FIG. 4 is a perspective, partial cross sectional view of anotherexemplary embodiment of an inner connector assembly suitable for usewith the outer connector housing shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a perspective, partial cross sectional view of anotherexemplary embodiment of an inner connector assembly suitable for usewith the outer connector housing shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a perspective, partial cross sectional view of anotherexemplary embodiment of an inner connector assembly suitable for usewith the outer connector housing shown in FIG. 1 and showing partsthereof, such as a collar, cut-away for clarity;

FIG. 7 is a perspective, partial cross sectional view of anotherexemplary embodiment of an inner connector assembly suitable for usewith the outer connector housing shown in FIG. 1; and

FIG. 8 is a perspective, partial cross sectional view of yet anotherexemplary embodiment of an inner connector assembly suitable for usewith the outer connector housing shown in FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Aspects of the present invention will now be described with reference tothe drawings where like numerals correspond to like elements.Embodiments of the present invention are directed to cable connectors,such as cable splice connectors, suitable for interconnecting orsplicing together at least two cables or cable sections. Morespecifically, embodiments of present invention are generally directed tocable connectors that interconnect or splice together at least twocables or cable sections while providing at least one fluid pathway forremediation fluid to flow therebetween. Additionally, some embodimentsof the present invention include one or more internal cavities, referredherein as fluid reservoirs, that are capable of storing a selectedvolume of remediation fluid for subsequent introduction orreintroduction to the cables or cable sections. Although exemplaryembodiments of the present invention will be described hereinafter assuitable for interconnecting or splicing electrical power cables orcable sections, it will be appreciated that aspects of the presentinvention have wide application, and may be suitable for interconnectingother cables or cable sections having an insulation overlayer, such asoptical or data transmission cable. Accordingly, the followingdescriptions and illustrations herein should be considered illustrativein nature, and thus, not limiting the scope of the present invention, asclaimed.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective, partial cross sectional view of oneexemplary embodiment of a cable connector 20 constructed in accordancewith aspects of the present invention. Generally described, the cableconnector 20 includes an inner connector assembly 24 and an outerconnector housing 26. In use, the cable connector 20 securely fastens orsplices together at least two cables or cable sections 30 and 32 inelectrical communication while also providing fluid communicationtherebetween. The cable connector 20 further protects, and preferablyseals off, the connection interface between the cables or cable sections30 and 32 from the environment.

In one embodiment, the cables or cable sections 30 and 32 each include aconductive core 36 and an insulation layer 40. The cables or cablesections 30 and 32 may include other components well known in the art,such as an outer protective jacket and a plurality of longitudinallyextending conductive neutral wires. The insulation layer 40 has agenerally tubular configuration that extends the length of the cables orcable sections 30 and 32. The insulation layer 40 is suitably formedfrom a high molecular weight polyethylene (HMWPE) polymer, across-linked polyethylene (XLPE), an ethylene-propylene rubber (EPR) orother solid dielectrics, wherein each may include water tree retardants,fillers, anti-oxidants, UV stabilizers, etc.

The conductive core 36 is coaxially received within the insulation layer40 and is centrally located therein. The conductive core 36 includes aplurality of electrically conductive stands, although a single strandmay also be used. The strands of the conductive core 36 are constructedof a suitable conductive material, such as copper, aluminum, etc. In oneembodiment, the conductive core 36 may be surrounded by a semiconductiveor insulating strand shield (not shown). The strand shield may besuitably formed from a compound that includes polyethylene or a similarmaterial and surrounds the conductive core 36 such that it is disposedbetween the conductive core 36 and the insulation layer 40.

In one embodiment, the cables or cable sections 30 and 32 are multipleconductive strand power cables, such as medium voltage cables that carrybetween 5,000 and 35,000 volts. Even though power cables are illustratedin embodiments herein, it should be apparent that other cables or cablessections, such as low voltage power cables, transmission voltage powercables, control cables, and communication cables including conductivepair, telephone, and digital communication cables, are also within thescope of the present invention. Thus, it should be apparent that withinthe meaning of the present invention, a cable or cable section not onlyincludes electrical cables, but also light transmitting cables.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, the components of the cable connector 20 willnow be described in detail. As described above, one embodiment of thecable connector 20 includes an inner connector assembly 24 and an outerconnector housing 26. As best shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the outerconnector housing 26 defines an interior cavity 44 for encasing theinner connector assembly 24. At its ends, the outer connector housing 26includes first and second openings 46 and 48 for providing access to theinterior cavity 44. The openings 46 and 48 are sized and configured forintroducing the first and second cable sections 30 and 32, respectively,into interior cavity 44. In one embodiment, the outer connector housing26 comprises an insulating layer 50 that is sandwiched between inner andouter semi-conductive shells 54 and 56.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, the inner connector assembly 24comprises an inner connector housing 58 that houses a cable coupling 60and one or more fluid reservoirs 62 that store remediation fluid. In theembodiment shown, the cable coupling 60 is a tubular structureconstructed of an electrically conductive material, such as aluminum,copper, or suitable alloy. The cable coupling 60 defines an exteriorsurface 64, ends 68 and 70, and a through bore 74 that terminates asopenings 76 and 78 at ends 68 and 70 of the cable coupling 60,respectively. The openings 76 and 78 of the through bore 74 are sizedand configured for receiving conductive cores 36 of the electricalcables or cable section 30 and 32, respectively.

When assembled, portions of cables or cable sections 30 and 32 that havebeen stripped to remove the outer insulation layer 40 and other optionallayers from the cables or cable sections are inserted into openings 76and 78, respectively, and securely affixed thereto by techniques, suchas crimping, soldering, or adhesive bonding, to name a few. When affixedthereto, the cores 36 are electrically connected to the cable coupling60 by direct contact, through the affixing mechanism, such as solder,etc, or other known techniques. As a result, the core 36 of the firstcable or cable section 30 is electrically connected to the core 36 ofthe second cable or cable section 32 via the cable coupling 60.

The lengths of the exposed cores 36 are sufficient to extend into thethrough bore 74 at openings 76 and 78, as well as to extend outside ofthe cable coupling 60, when assembled. By extending outside of the cablecoupling 60, a gap 80 is formed at both ends 68 and 70 of the cablecoupling 60 between the insulation layer 40 of each cable or cablesection 30 and 32 and the end faces of the cable coupling 60. The cores36 of the cables or cable sections 30 and 32 preferably do not touchwhen assembled, thereby leaving an interior space between the ends ofthe cables or cable sections 30 and 32. Therefore, in accordance withone aspect of the present invention, the cable coupling 60 provides afirst pathway 84 for remediation fluid that is introduced into thecables or cable sections 30 and 32 to intercommunicate therebetween.Accordingly, fluid supplied to either cable or cable section 30 or 32from the opposite ends thereof may flow to the other cable or cablesection 30 or 32 through the fluid pathway 84.

In one embodiment, the ends of the cables or cable sections 30 and 32when inserted into the openings 76 and 78 are then secured in anelectrically conductive manner to the cable coupling 60 by crimping eachend 68 and 70 of the cable coupling 60, as known in the art. Crimpingguides (not shown) may be provided on the exterior surface 64 of thecable coupling 60 to demark the appropriate location of crimping. Strainrelief grooves (not shown) may be located on the exterior surface 64 ofthe cable coupling 60 adjacent the crimping guides, respectively, andprovide relief from strain forces generated as the cable coupling 60 iscrimped. Although a cable coupling 60 that is crimped around the coresfor providing a mechanical and electrical connection therebetween issuitable for embodiments of the present invention, such embodiments ofthe invention are not intended to be so limited. For example, the cablecoupling 60 can be substituted with any mechanical device configured tosufficiently affix the two cable cores in electrical communication whileallowing fluidic intercommunication therebetween.

The inner connector assembly 24 further includes one or more internalfluid reservoirs 62 that are capable of storing remediation fluid, suchas CABLECURE®, CABLECURE®/XL, CABLECURE®/SD, CABLECURE®/CB,Acetephenone, etc. In the embodiment shown, the internal fluidreservoirs 62 are defined by one or more bladders 82. Each bladder 82 ispreferably constructed from a pliable but impermeable material, such asan elastomer, e.g., rubber. As such, each fluid reservoir 62 may have aselectively adjustable inner volume. The bladders 82 are disposed insurrounding relation with the gaps 80. In the embodiment shown, thebladders 82 include openings disposed at their end sections 86 and 88.The end section openings of the bladders 82 receive therein respectiveportions of the cable coupling 60 and the cables or cable sections 30and 32. The bladders 82 are suitably coupled in a sealed manner at theirend sections 86 and 88 to the cable coupling 60 and the insulationlayers 40 of the cables or cable sections 30 and 32, respectively. Inone embodiment, the end sections 86 and 88 of the bladders 82 areremovably affixed to the cable coupling 60 and the cables or cablesections 30 and 32 in a sealed manner by conventional band clamps 90;however, other removable and non-removable affixation techniques may beused, if desired. When assembled, the fluid reservoirs 62 defined by thebladders 82 are connected in fluid communication with the gaps 80.Accordingly, fluid injected into the cables or cable sections 30 and 32may further be introduced into the bladders 82.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the cablecoupling 60 further includes one or more openings 92 disposed in itsside wall, as best shown in FIG. 2. The openings 92 are configured toprovide fluid communication with a portion of the through bore 74 from alocation external the cable coupling 60. In one embodiment, the openings92 are disposed inwardly from the ends of the affixed cores 36 so thatthe openings 92 are connected in fluid communication with the fluidpathway 84. When the bladders 82 are affixed to the cable coupling 60,the fluid reservoirs 62 are connected in fluid communication with theopenings 92. As such, the fluid reservoirs 62 are connected in fluidcommunication with the fluid pathway 84 via the openings 92.

While the fluid reservoirs 62 are defined in this embodiment by flexiblebladders 82, it will be appreciated that rigid or semi-rigid bladdersmay also be used. Additionally, it will be appreciated that otherexpandable and non-expandable structures that define fluid reservoirsmay be practiced with embodiments of the present invention. Further,while two bladders were shown and described, it will be appreciated thatin some embodiments, one or both of the bladders may be omitted.

The inner connector assembly 24 further includes an inner connectorhousing 58 that defines an interior cavity 104 for encasing the internalcomponents of the assembly, including the cable coupling 60 and thefluid reservoirs 62. In one embodiment, the interior cavity 104 isoversized so as to create space between the internal components of theassembly and the inner connector housing 58, the benefit of which willbe described in detail below. In the embodiment shown, the innerconnector housing 58 is assembled from first and second end sections108, 110 and a main body section 114. While a cylindrical housing isshown, other shapes may be practiced with and are considered to bewithin the scope of the present invention. The end sections 108, 110 maybe removably or non-removably connected to the main body section 114. Inone embodiment, the end sections 108, 110 may be removably connected tothe main body section 114 through cooperating threaded engagement (notshown); however other known techniques may be used. The end sections 108and 110 define aligned openings for introducing the cables or cablesections 30 and 32 into the interior cavity 104.

In the embodiment shown, the interior cavity 104 is sealed at its endsby compression seals 116 and 118. Alternatively, the cavity 104 may besealed by o-rings, compression rings, gaskets, sealing threads or anyother suitable seals or sealing means capable of isolating the interiorcavity 104 of the inner connector housing 58 from the environment. Thecompression seals 116 and 118 rest against inner peripheral shoulderregions 120 defined by the main body section 114 at each end. In oneembodiment, the compression seals 116 and 118 are formed by anelastomeric disc 122 sandwiched between two discs 124 and 126constructed of a material harder than that of the elastomeric disc 122.

When assembled, the seals 116 and 118 are concentrically disposed overthe insulation layer 40 of the cables or cable sections 30 and 32. Theend sections 108, 110 press the seals 116 and 118 against the shoulderregions 120 of the main body section 114, thereby compressing theelastomeric discs 122. By compressing the elastomeric discs 122, theelastomeric discs 122 expand outwardly and contact the inner surface ofthe main body section 114 and the outer surface of the insulation layer40 in sealing engagement.

In one embodiment, the remaining space that surrounds the bladders 82within the interior cavity 104 of the inner connector housing 58 may beused to contain pressurized fluid for applying pressure against thebladders 82. As such, the remaining space may be referred to as anactuator chamber. An actuator chamber access port 130 may be disposed inthe inner connector housing 58 for introducing a pressurized fluid, suchas gas, into the actuator chamber. In several embodiments, pressureswithin the actuator chamber are contemplated to be approximately 3-10psi.

Although chamber pressures within the range of 3-10 psi are described inone embodiment, it should be apparent that the embodiments of thepresent invention are not intended to be so limited. As a non-limitingexample, high chamber pressures are also within the scope of the presentinvention. Therefore, pressure ranges cited herein are intended to benon-limiting examples, and as such, a wide range of chamber pressuresare within the scope of the present invention. It will be appreciatedthat the actuator chamber access port 130 may be fitted with a suitablevalving mechanism 134, such as a poppet valve, for providing selectiveaccess to the actuator chamber.

It will be appreciated that the shape of the bladders 82 are determinedby the amount of fluid it contains and the pressure that is appliedthereto. While the preferred embodiment utilizes compressed gas as theforce generator, polymeric bushings, compression springs or the likecould be used to pressurize the remediation fluid contained in thebladders 82 by applying force against the bladders 82 or through anintermediary device, such as a piston, to more evenly distribute theforce. Such a force generator would not require the actuator chamberaccess port.

Still referring to FIG. 2, the inner connector housing 58 iselectrically connected to the cable coupling 60 for maintaining theinner connector housing 58 at the same voltage potential as the cablecoupling 60. In the embodiment shown, an electrically conductive member140, such as a metallic bolt or spring, contacts the cable coupling 60and a portion of the inner connector housing 58.

In operation, remediation fluid is pumped or otherwise injected into thecables or cable sections 30 and 32 from the opposite end of the cableconnector 20. As the remediation fluid passes through the cables orcables sections 30 and 32, it exits the cables or cable sections 30 and32 by passing through the interstitial spaces between the strands of theexposed cores 36 and fills the fluid reservoirs 62 defined by thebladders 82. The pumping process continues until additional remediationfluid is pumped into the cable connector 20 to fill the fluid reservoirs62 of the bladder 82. Doing so provides the bladders 82 with additionalremediation fluid which, over a period of time, is introduced or forcedinto the cables or cable sections 30 and 32, replacing that which islost by diffusion into the cable insulation. After the electricalconnector 20 and cable 40 have been filled with remediation fluid, theremediation fluid begins to diffuse into the cable insulation. As fluidis depleted in the cables or cable sections 30 and 32, it is replenishedby the fluid remaining in the fluid reservoirs 62.

In embodiments where the actuator chamber is pressurized, compressed gasmay be selectively injected into the actuator chamber through the accessport 130 prior to fluid injection. During use, the pressurized fluidcontained within the actuator chamber applies pressure against thebladders 82, which in turn, applies pressure to the fluid occupying thefluid reservoirs 62. It will be appreciated that the pressure exertedagainst the bladders 82 aids in driving the fluid from the bladders 82into the cable or cable sections 30 and 32.

FIG. 4 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of an inner connectorassembly 224 constructed in accordance with aspects of the presentinvention for use with the outer connector housing 26 of FIG. 1. Theinner connector assembly 224 is substantially similar in materials,construction, and operation as the inner connector assembly 24 of FIG.1, except for the differences that will now be described. In thisembodiment, a single bladder 282 that defines a fluid reservoir 262 isutilized. The bladder 282 extends from the insulation layer 240 of thefirst cable or cable section 230 to the insulation layer 240 of thesecond cable or cable section 232, thereby covering the gaps 280 formedby the exposed cores 236 of the first and second cable or cable sections230 and 232.

The bladder 282 is preferably constructed of a semi-conductiveelastomeric material. When assembled, the bladder 282 is electricallyconnected to the inner assembly housing 258. In the embodiment shown, anelectrically conductive member 228 electrically connects the bladder 282to a portion of the inner assembly housing 258. In the embodiment shown,a conductive adapter 296 is provided that electrically links the exposedcore 236 to the bladder 282. The adapter 296 contacts and is retainedagainst the exposed core 236 of the second cable or cable section 232 bya band clamp. The adapter 296 further contacts and is retained againstthe inner surface of one end section of the bladder 282 by a band clamp290.

FIG. 5 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of an inner connectorassembly 324 constructed in accordance with aspects of the presentinvention for use with the outer connector housing 26 of FIG. 1. Theinner connector assembly 324 is substantially similar in materials,construction, and operation as the inner connector assembly 24 of FIG.1, except for the differences that will now be described. In thisembodiment, the bladders are omitted and in their stead are onestationary piston 366 and one movable piston 372 that define three fluidtight chambers 394A-394C. The first and third chambers 394A and 394C aredisposed in fluid communication with the gaps 380 formed by the exposedcores of the cables or cable sections 330 and 332. The first and thirdchambers 394A and 394C are filled with remediation fluid during use, andtherefore, can be referred to as fluid reservoirs. The second chamber394B, located in between the first and third chambers 394A and 394C, maybe filled with compressed gas, and therefore, can be referred to as anactuation chamber. When assembled, the pistons 366 and 372 are disposedon a hollow sleeve 398, which is concentrically disposed over thecoupling 360.

The hollow sleeve 398 defines a constant outer diameter. The stationarypiston 366 is fixedly coupled at one end of the sleeve 398 by techniquesknown in the art, such as welding, mechanical fasteners, etc. while themovable piston 372 is slidably coupled in a sealing manner to the sleeve398. At the end of the sleeve 398 opposite the stationary piston 366, astopper ring 338 is fixedly attached thereto for providing an end stopfor the movable piston 372. In use, the movable piston 372 is capable ofsliding between the stationary piston 366 and the stopper ring 338. Thepistons 366 and 372 are both configured to sealingly engage the sleeve398 at their inner circumferential surface as well as sealingly engagethe inner surface of the inner assembly housing 358. Accordingly, eachchamber 394A-394C is fluidly isolated from one another.

In one embodiment, the inner bore of the sleeve 398 is sized andconfigured to provide space between the inner surface of the sleeve boreand the outer surface 364 of the coupling 360. In this embodiment, thespace created between the coupling and the sleeve forms a second fluidpathway. Alternatively, the inner bore of the sleeve 398 may be sizedand configured to slidably contact the outer surface 364 of the coupling360.

While a sleeve 398 has been proved in the illustrative embodiment, itwill be appreciated that the sleeve 398 may be replaced by configuringthe exterior surface 364 of the cable coupling 360 with a constantdiameter.

The stationary piston 366 may further include an access port 342. Theaccess port 342 provides access to the second, actuator chamber 394B forsupplying pressurized gas thereto. The movable piston 372 furtherincludes contact protrusions 328 positioned at the inner and outerperipheries of the piston 372 such that the protrusions 328 remain incontact with the sleeve 398 and the inner connector housing 358 duringuse. The piston 372 is preferably constructed of a conductive orsemiconductive material so that the inner connector housing 358 iselectrically connected to the sleeve 398. In embodiments where a spaceis formed between the sleeve 398 and the cable coupling 360, aconductive link may be provided for electrically connecting the coupling360 with the sleeve 398.

FIG. 6 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of an inner connectorassembly 424 constructed in accordance with aspects of the presentinvention for use with the outer connector housing 26 of FIG. 1. Theinner connector assembly 424 is substantially similar in materials,construction, and operation as the inner connector assembly 324 of FIG.5, except for the differences that will now be described. In thisembodiment, the stationary piston is permitted to move, and ishereinafter referred to as movable piston 466. The movable pistons 466and 472 define three fluid tight chambers 494A-494C. The first and thirdchambers 494A and 494C are disposed in fluid communication with the gaps480 formed by the exposed cores 436 of the cables or cable sections 430and 432. The first and third chambers 494A and 494C are filled withremediation fluid during use, and therefore, can be referred to as fluidreservoirs. The second chamber 494B, located in between the first andthird chambers 494A and 494C, may be filled with compressed gas, andtherefore, can be referred to as an actuator chamber.

Pairs of stopper rings 438 are fitted at the ends of the sleeve 498 andin the center region of the sleeve 498 for providing end stops for themovable pistons 466 and 472. In use, the pistons 466 and 472 are capableof sliding between the inner and outer stopper rings 438. The pistons466 and 472 are configured to sealingly engage the sleeve 498 at itsinner circumferential surface and sealingly engages the inner surface ofthe inner assembly housing 458. Accordingly, each chamber is fluidlyisolated from one another. The inner connector housing 458 furtherincludes an actuator chamber access port 434 for providing access to theactuator chamber. It will be appreciated that the actuator chamberaccess port 434 may be fitted with a suitable valving mechanism 456,such as a poppet valve, for providing selective access to the actuatorchamber. In use, pressurized fluid introduced and stored within theactuator chamber exerts pressure on the fluid chambers 494A and 494C viathe movable pistons 466 and 472, thereby driving the remediation fluidcontained therein into the cables or cable sections 430 and 432.

While the preferred embodiments utilize compressed gas as the forcegenerator, polymeric bushings, compression springs or the like could beused to pressurize the remediation fluid contained in the fluid chambers494A and 494C by applying force thereagainst. Such a force generatorwould not require the actuator chamber access port.

FIG. 7 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of an inner connectorassembly 524 constructed in accordance with aspects of the presentinvention for use with the outer connector housing 26 of FIG. 1. Theinner connector assembly 524 of the present embodiment is intended to beused in a substantially vertical orientation. However, it should beapparent to one of ordinary skill that the inner connector assembly 524is not intended to be so limited. As non-limiting examples, the innerconnector assembly 524 may be positioned in a substantially horizontal,oblique, or obtuse angular orientation. Such embodiments are also withinthe scope of the present invention.

The inner connector assembly 524 is substantially similar in materials,construction, and operation as the inner connector assembly 24 of FIG.1, except for the differences that will now be described. As best shownin FIG. 7, the bladders of FIG. 1 are replaced by an elongated hollowsleeve 598 disposed in concentric relation with the cable coupling 560.One end of the sleeve 598 covers the insulation layer 540 of either thefirst or second cable or cable section 530 or 532. The sleeve 598extends from the insulation layer 540 of one cable or cable section 530or 532 toward the opposite end of the coupling 560.

The end of the sleeve 598 is sealingly engaged with the insulation layer540. In one embodiment, the inner surface of the sleeve bore may includeone or more peripheral grooves for receiving seals, such as o-rings, tocreate a sealing interface between the insulation layer 540 and theinner surface of the sleeve 598. Alternatively, the sealing connectionmay be achieved by heat bonding, adhesives, heat shrinking seals, orclamp rings, just to name a few.

The inner bore of the sleeve 598 is sized so as to define a fluidpassageway 552 in-between the inner bore surface of the sleeve 598 andthe outer surface 564 of the coupling 560. The outer surface of thesleeve 598 is sized so that space is provided for defining a fluidreservoir between the outer surface of the sleeve 598 and the innerconnector housing 558. The sleeve 598 is electrically connected to theinner connector housing 558 by conductive link 528. The sleeve 598 maybe electrically connected to the coupling 560 or the cores of the firstor second cable or cable section 530 or 532. Thus, the inner connectorhousing 558 may remain at the same voltage potential as the coupling560.

FIG. 8 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of an inner connectorassembly 624 constructed in accordance with aspects of the presentinvention, which is suitable for use with the outer connector housing 26of FIG. 1. The inner connector assembly 624 is substantially similar inmaterials, construction, and operation as the inner connector assembly24 of FIG. 1, except for the differences that will now be described. Inthis embodiment, the inner connector housing 658 defines an interiorcavity 659 for encasing the internal components of the assembly,including the cable coupling 660 and an elastic bladder 682. In oneembodiment, the interior cavity 659 is oversized so as to create spacebetween the internal components of the assembly and the inner connectorhousing 658. In use, as will be described in detail below, this space isfilled with remediation fluid, and thus, may be referred to as a fluidreservoir.

When assembled, the bladder 682 is disposed within the interior cavity659 of the inner connector housing 658 and extends along a portion ofthe cable coupling 660. In one embodiment, the bladder is disposed insurrounding relation with the cable coupling 660 and extends from theinsulation layer of cable 630 to the insulation layer of cable 632. Inthis embodiment, the bladder 682 is preferably not sealed at its ends tothe insulation layer 640 of the cable or cable sections 630 and 632, andthus, allows fluid when present to flow between the gaps 680 and thefluid reservoir defined by the interior cavity. The bladder 682 definesan interior chamber that in one embodiment my contain a gas underpressure, as will be described in detail below. In one embodiment, thebladder 682 has a U-shaped cross section for providing appropriate fluidflow between the gaps 680 and the fluid reservoir, while furtherproviding space for an electrically conductive member 628, such as ametallic bolt or spring, to electrically link the cable coupling 660with the inner connector housing 658. Alternatively, to electricallylink the inner connector housing 658 and the cable coupling 660 formaintaining the inner connector housing 658 at the same voltagepotential as the cable coupling 660, the bladder 682 may be constructedof a conductive or semi-conductive material and may be configured andarranged to suitably interconnect the cable coupling 660 and the innerconnector housing 658 in electrical communication. It will beappreciated that in such an embodiment, the bladder 682 can havecross-sectional shapes other than U-shaped.

In one embodiment, an interior chamber 685 defined by the bladder 682may contain or be filled with gas under pressure, and may be referred toas an actuator chamber. To that end, the bladder 682 includes a valvedinlet (not shown but well known in the art) for selectively accessingthe interior chamber 685 of the bladder 682. In embodiments of thepresent invention, the bladder 682 may be filled with pressurized gasprior to assembly, or may be filled after assembly of the innerconnector housing 658 through a valve 687, such as a poppet valve,located in the inner connector housing 658. A fluid passageway isprovided that interconnects the valve and the interior chamber of thebladder 682 in fluid communication. In either case, it is preferable tofill the interior chamber 685 of the bladder 682 with pressurized gasprior to the introduction of remediation fluid into the cable or cablesections 630 and 632. In one embodiment, the gas contained in theinterior chamber 685 is initially pressurized to approximately 5 psi,although other pressures may be practiced with the present invention,and thus, are within the scope of the present invention.

Prior to use, the inner connector housing 658 is assembled in a fluidtight manner and the bladder 682 can be optionally filled withpressurized gas. Fluid is then injected into the cables or cablesections 630 and 632 from the opposite end of the inner connectorhousing 658. As the remediation fluid passes through the cables orcables sections 630 and 632, it exits the cables or cable sections 630and 632 by passing through the interstitial spaces between the strandsof the exposed cores 636 at gaps 680 and fills the fluid reservoir.

In embodiments where the bladder 682 is filled with pressurized gas, thefluid injected into the cables or cable sections 630 and 632 ispreferably injected into the cables or cable sections 630 and 632 at ahigher pressure than the gas contained in the bladder interior chamber685. As the fluid is injected into the cables or cable sections 630 and632, the fluid continuously fills the fluid reservoir as it exits thecables or cable sections 630 and 632 at gaps 680. While fluid occupiesthe fluid reservoir, the fluid exerts pressure against the bladder 682,thereby compressing the bladder 682 into a smaller volume. Bycompressing the bladder 682 into a smaller volume, the volume or fluidcapacity of the fluid reservoir increases. This decrease in the volumeof the bladder interior chamber 685 increases the internal pressure ofthe pressurized gas contained therein. This process continues until anequilibrium between the fluid pressure in the fluid reservoir and thepressurized gas within the bladder 682 is reached.

During use, the remediation fluid stored in the fluid reservoir isintroduced over a period of time into the cables or cable sections 630and 632, replacing that which is lost by diffusion into the cableinsulation. In embodiments where the bladder interior chamber 685 isfilled with pressurized gas, the pressurized gas contained within theinterior chamber 685 applies pressure against the fluid contained in thefluid reservoir and imparts a driving force against the fluid to forcethe fluid from the fluid reservoir into the cable or cable sections 630and 632. It will be appreciated that the bladder could also be an orcontain therein an elastomeric spring.

The principles, preferred embodiments, and modes of operation of thepresent invention have been described in the foregoing description.However, the invention which is intended to be protected is not to beconstrued as limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Further,the embodiments described herein are to be regarded as illustrativerather than restrictive. Variations and changes may be made by others,and equivalents employed, without departing from the spirit of thepresent invention. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all suchvariations, changes, and equivalents which fall within the spirit andscope of the present invention.

1. An apparatus for interconnecting a first cable and a second cable,wherein said first and second cables each comprise an exposedelectrically conductive core and an outer insulating layer, theapparatus comprising: a coupling that electrically interconnects thefirst and second cables, wherein the coupling defines a first fluidpathway that connects the core of the first cable in fluid communicationwith the core of the second cable; and at least one internal fluidreservoir disposed in fluid communication with the core of the first orsecond cable.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the internal fluidreservoir is sealed from the environment.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1,further comprising a bladder, wherein the bladder defines the internalfluid reservoir.
 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein pressurized fluidoccupies the bladder.
 5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the bladderis rigid or expandable.
 6. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the bladderis constructed of a semi-conductive material.
 7. The apparatus of claim3, wherein the bladder is connected in electrical communication with thecoupling or the first or second core.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1,further comprising a housing that encases the coupling, wherein thehousing defines the fluid reservoir.
 9. The apparatus of claim 8,wherein the housing electrically contacts the coupling and/or the core.10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the fluid reservoir is disposed influid communication with the first and second cables.
 11. The apparatusof claim 1, further comprising means for forcing fluid into the first orsecond cable.
 12. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising anactuator chamber, wherein the actuator chamber is fluidly isolated fromthe fluid reservoir.
 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the actuatorchamber contains fluid under pressure.
 14. The apparatus of claim 13,wherein the pressurized fluid exerts pressure against fluid contained inthe fluid reservoir.
 15. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the actuatorchamber is defined by a bladder.
 16. The apparatus of claim 12, furthercomprising a housing that encases the coupling, wherein the housingdefines the actuator chamber.
 17. The apparatus of claim 12, furthercomprising a piston separating the fluid reservoir and the actuatorchamber, wherein the piston is movable in the direction of the fluidreservoir upon application of pressure from the actuator chamber. 18.The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the pressure is supplied by a biasingdevice or pressurized fluid.
 19. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein thefluid reservoir is exposed to externally applied pressure for drivingfluid from the fluid reservoir into the first or second cable.
 20. Theapparatus of claim 19, wherein the pressure is supplied by a biasingdevice or pressurized fluid.
 21. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein thefluid reservoir is exposed to internally applied pressure for drivingfluid from the fluid reservoir into the first or second cable.
 22. Theapparatus of claim 1, further comprising means for applying pressureagainst fluid disposed in the internal fluid reservoir.
 23. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the fluid reservoir has an adjustablevolume.
 24. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a secondinterior fluid reservoir disposed in fluid communication with the coreof the other of the first or second cable.
 25. The apparatus of claim 1,further comprising a sleeve having an inner bore, the coupling beingconcentrically disposed within the inner bore, wherein the couplingextends along at least a portion of the sleeve.
 26. The apparatus ofclaim 25, wherein the sleeve is configured such that a second fluidpathway is formed between the inner surface of the inner bore and theexterior surface of the coupling, the second fluid pathway extendingfrom one end of the sleeve to the other.
 27. An apparatus forinterconnecting a first cable and a second cable, wherein said first andsecond cables each comprise an exposed electrically conductive core andan outer insulating layer, the apparatus comprising: a coupling thatelectrically interconnects the first and second cables, wherein thecoupling defines a first fluid pathway that connects the core of thefirst cable in fluid communication with the core of the second cable; atleast one internal fluid reservoir disposed in fluid communication witheither core of the first and/or second cable; and an actuator chamberfluidly isolated from the at least one internal fluid reservoir.
 28. Theapparatus of claim 27, wherein the contents of the actuator chambergenerates a force that is imparted against fluid disposed in the atleast one internal fluid reservoir.
 29. The apparatus of claim 28,further comprising first and second internal fluid reservoirs disposedin fluid communication with the cores of the first and second cables,respectively, and first and second pistons that exert at least one forcegenerated by the actuator chamber against fluid disposed in the firstand/or second internal fluid reservoirs.
 30. An apparatus forinterconnecting a first cable and a second cable, wherein said first andsecond cables each comprise an exposed electrically conductive core andan outer insulating layer, the apparatus comprising: a housing thatdefines a sealable interior cavity; a coupling disposed in the interiorcavity, the coupling electrically and mechanically interconnecting thefirst and second cables, wherein the coupling defines a first fluidpathway that connects the core of the first cable in fluid communicationwith the core of the second cable; a fluid reservoir disposed in theinterior cavity; and means for forcing the contents of the fluidreservoir into the core of the first and/or second cable.